The Freeway Park Association was established in 1993 in response to the community’s demand for greater public safety in their aging neighborhood park. Freeway Park began to see a decline in the late 1980s when its robust plant palette became unruly due to lack of maintenance, growing larger than originally intended, shading out its poorly conceived lighting poles and creating dark areas where elicit behavior was easily hidden. FPA quickly formed an enduring relationship with Seattle Parks and Recreation to further its desire to lend the necessary support, ideas, energy, and fundraising to restore the neglected park.

Today, FPA is a seasoned, membership‐based, 501(c)(3) whose yearly dues from neighbors around the park help to sustain a diverse programming calendar of free events for the community. Its Board of Directors represents the long‐range commitment of neighboring organizations and the continued spirit of civic activism that the park’s namesake, Jim Ellis, instilled in our City and our park.

The Freeway Park Association mobilizes resources and community members to ensure widespread enjoyment and the continued maintenance of Jim Ellis Freeway Park in partnership with the City and the community, for present and future generations of Seattle residents and visitors.

Through the creation of rich and dynamic outdoor experiences in a well maintained and safe environment, the Freeway Park Association is recognized as the innovative driving force behind Seattle’s most iconic downtown park and is a model for community/city partnerships working toward the improvement of urban public spaces.